Factoring and Solving the Expression (x+4)(x-7) + 3(x-7)
This expression can be simplified and factored by recognizing a common factor.
1. Identify the Common Factor:
Observe that both terms in the expression share a common factor of (x - 7).
2. Factor out the Common Factor:
- Rewrite the expression by factoring out (x - 7): (x - 7) [(x + 4) + 3]
3. Simplify the Expression:
- Combine the terms inside the brackets: (x - 7) (x + 7)
4. Final Factored Form:
- The simplified and factored form of the expression is: (x - 7)(x + 7)
Solving for x:
To find the values of x that make the expression equal to zero, we can use the Zero Product Property: If the product of two factors is zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero.
- Set each factor equal to zero and solve for x:
- x - 7 = 0 => x = 7
- x + 7 = 0 => x = -7
Therefore, the solutions to the equation (x + 4)(x - 7) + 3(x - 7) = 0 are x = 7 and x = -7.